Predator Taxi Driver Jailed for 26 Years Over Historic Child Sex Attacks
Neville Crouch, 63, has been slammed with a hefty 26-year sentence for a series of sickening sexual offences against three young girls across West Sussex and Cleveland. The attacks date back between 23 and 38 years, but justice has finally caught up with the former taxi driver, now living in Preston, Lancashire.
Decades-Old Evil Comes to Light
Crouch, from Plungington Road, was sentenced at Hove Crown Court after being convicted in a 2019 trial. His horrific abuse targeted a girl aged 7 to 16 between 1982 and 1991 in Hartlepool and Littlehampton, another girl aged 12 to 16 between 1993 and 1997 in Hartlepool, and a 12-year-old in 1984 in Goring.
Lengthy Prison Term and Lifelong Licence
The judge handed Crouch 21 years behind bars, plus an additional 5 years on extended licence. He will also be registered as a sex offender for life, ensuring he remains under strict supervision after release.
Brave Victims and Relentless Police Work
The investigation kicked off in 2017 after one victim courageously came forward. Detective Constable Andrew Roe revealed:
“Crouch, who drove taxis in Hartlepool and Littlehampton during the ’80s and ’90s, exploited three young victims he met through family and friends. Two endured abuse over several years. The brave victims supported our probe and gave strong evidence at trial. We’ll always pursue justice, no matter how long ago the crimes happened.”
Sussex Police worked closely with the Crown Prosecution Service to bring the predator to book.
Speak Up, Get Support
If you or someone you know has suffered abuse, don’t stay silent. Visit the Sussex Police website for advice and to report offences.
